2008 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 458 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox (286 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Equinox | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Equinox | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 62 L |
